It's the blue we'll best remember. The shimmering, rolling Atlantic Sea just along the coast, the richer marine hues of the more sheltered Bay of Cascais opposite, the glorious blue skies above. And, the shade of royal powder blue found throughout this elegant 19th-century residence, which opened as boutique hotel in late 2015 following a sensational makeover by a well-known Portuguese interior designer. The reception, restaurant and guest lounge have this opulence on walls, ceilings, chairs, sofas and feature shelving, as do half the superbly comfortable bedrooms. The others are clad in a wonderful rich olive green, while the penthouse has 3 balconies and a freestanding tub from which to drink in that blue view. Everything has purpose and place: the dramatic destination bar has ceilings of heritage Portuguese tiles; clusters of vintage wooden and brass moulds provide focal points.
The groovy restaurant overlooks the waterfront of this upscale coastal town, Lisbon's summer playground, only 40 minutes west of the capital. In short, it's a perfect spot for a break with your partner or friends.
Highs
- The restaurant terrace is the perfect place to bask in the sunshine while enjoying the best of food and drink
- An intimate vibe: only 11 beautiful rooms, all of which have some kind of sea view and a smart bathroom
- The central location - easily found, and close to all sights, bars and restaurants
- Delightful, friendly service
- Lisbon is only 40 minutes away by train, so you don't need a car
Lows
- No pool
- The knockout style and location puts a premium on prices
- Not set up for families, despite the beach opposite
- The town can get lively in the afternoons and evenings in high season, so expect some noise
Best time to go
It's great to be beside the sea whatever the time of year or weather. That said, to make the most of the waterfront location, you may prefer spring through to autumn.
Our top tips
You can hire bikes for free at the Town Hall opposite, and explore the dramatic Atlantic coastline along a good cycle path, stopping off at the marvellous beaches en route. Cabo da Raco, the most westerly point of Europe, is only 5km west.
Location
Villa Cascais is on the main promenade beside Fisherman's Beach in the centre of vibrant Cascais, close to the restaurants and shops. Cascais is 35km west of Lisbon.
By Air:
Lisbon Portela Airport (35km) is your closest. Click on the links below for a list of airlines serving here. Ask for an airport transfer, travel here by train or see ou car rental recommendations. The hotel has free valet parking.
By Train:
It is a simple (and great value) 40-minute journey from central Lisbon to Cascais, along the scenic Estoril Riviera (alight at Cais do Sodre station). The hotel is 5 minutes' walk from the station.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Portugal and getting around
Airports:
- Lisbon Portela Airport 35.0 km LIS
Other:
- Beach 0.1 km
- Shops 0.1 km
- Restaurant 0.1 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 2 independent reviews from i-escape guests
An amazing location, helpful front desk staff, parked car for me and free parking a bonus. Lovely room but shame there wasn’t better view (can’t all be though).
Nice decor, checkout midday is a bonus and they pushed to 12:30.
Lovely bar/restaurant let down only by the breakfast- really bland buffet & nothing offered by waiter who clearly couldn’t wait for his shift to end! Cold scrambled eggs and a poor selection was disappointing but not enough to put off recommending and returning.
A really great little spot with (mostly) personal service that felt more like a lovely guest house than a hotel.
Great location for hotel on sea front and the bar is a superb location to watch the sun go down with a glass of wine in hand.
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape